‘Hardworking, perfectionist, focused, that was James’

He called me twice to tell me to be safe on the road before he travelled because I drove first to attend the memorial service of the three teachers.

We were supposed to meet at my village so we proceed to Okamatapati because we farm in the same area. He never wanted to leave me behind.

He encouraged me to work hard and be committed.

Hardworking, perfectionist, focused, caring, and with a brilliant mind, that was James Uerikua,

Swapo member of parliament and former Otjozondjupa governor.

We were just Swapo comrades until we became close. He was more than a comrade, he was my brother. I would drive his boy to school when he was not around.

I refer to him as ‘The Man Who Made Me’. During Covid-19, we worked in the region. When I was scared, he told me: “Chair, it is better to die serving”.

He called me ‘chair’ since my chairperson position days at the regional council. I will make sure his legacy is remembered. He was a caring person, a brilliant king.

He encouraged me to read to be prepared. His children were his life. Three sons with names that he never explained to me: Juju, Bubu, Gaga.

He pushed me to go to the electoral college to become a member of parliament, something I never thought I would be in my life, but James saw it in me.

– Marlayn Mbakera is a Swapo member of parliament and the chairperson of the parliamentary standing committee on education, youth, civic relations and community development.

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